Multiple tubing annuli pipeline systems and methods

ABSTRACT

Techniques for implementing a pipe segment that includes a tubing inner barrier layer that defines a pipe bore through the pipe segment, a venting tubing annulus implemented around the tubing inner barrier layer, in which the venting tubing annulus includes a first solid material implemented to define a venting fluid conduit, a tubing intermediate barrier layer implemented around the venting tubing annulus, a reinforcement tubing annulus implemented around the tubing intermediate barrier layer, and a tubing outer barrier layer implemented around the reinforcement tubing annulus. The reinforcement tubing annulus includes a second solid material that is different from the first solid material and is implemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit. Additionally, the venting fluid conduit facilitates venting fluid that permeates from the pipe bore through the tubing inner barrier layer out from the pipe segment before the fluid contacts the second solid material in the reinforcement tubing annulus.

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present disclosure is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 16/931,041, filed Jul. 16, 2020 and entitled “MULTIPLE TUBING ANNULIPIPELINE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” which is incorporated herein by referencein its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to pipeline systems and, moreparticularly, to a pipe segment that may be deployed in a pipelinesystem.

Pipeline systems are often implemented and/or operated to facilitatetransporting (e.g., conveying) fluid, such as liquid and/or gas, from afluid source to a fluid destination. For example, a pipeline system maybe used to transport one or more hydrocarbons, such as crude oil,petroleum, natural gas, or any combination thereof. Additionally oralternatively, a pipeline system may be used to transport one or moreother types of fluid, such as produced water, fresh water, fracturingfluid, flowback fluid, carbon dioxide, or any combination thereof.

To facilitate transporting fluid, a pipeline system may include one ormore pipe segments, for example, in addition to one or more pipe (e.g.,midline and/or end) fittings (e.g., connectors) used to couple a pipesegment to another pipe segment, to a fluid source, and/or to a fluiddestination. Generally, a pipe segment includes tubing, which defines(e.g., encloses) a pipe bore that provides a primary fluid conveyance(e.g., flow) path through the pipe segment. More specifically, thetubing of a pipe segment may be implemented to facilitate isolating(e.g., insulating) fluid being conveyed within its pipe bore fromenvironmental conditions external to the pipe segment, for example, toreduce the likelihood of the conveyed (e.g., bore) fluid being lost tothe external environmental conditions and/or the external environmentalconditions contaminating the conveyed fluid (e.g., clean and/or potablewater).

To facilitate improving fluid isolation, in some instances, the tubingof a pipe segment may include multiple layers. For example, the tubingof a pipe segment may include an inner (e.g., innermost) barrier layer(e.g., liner or sheath) and an outer (e.g., outermost) barrier layer(e.g., shield or sheath) that each run (e.g., span) the length of thepipe segment. To facilitate improving its tensile strength and/or itshoop strength, the tubing of the pipe segment may additionally includeone or more reinforcement layers, which are implemented between theinner barrier layer and the outer barrier layer using a solid materialthat has a higher tensile strength and/or a higher linear elasticitymodulus (e.g., stiffness) than the solid material used to implement theinner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer. However, even whenimplemented as a continuous solid layer, some amount of fluid (e.g., gasand/or liquid) may nevertheless permeate from a pipe bore of a pipesegment through its tubing inner barrier layer and/or from environmentalconditions external to the pipe segment through its tubing outer barrierlayer and contact material in one of more of its tubing reinforcementlayers, which, at least in some instances, may potentially affect (e.g.,reduce) tensile strength and/or hoop strength of the pipe segment, forexample, due to the permeated fluid corroding the solid material in theone or more tubing reinforcement layers of the pipe segment.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that arefurther described below in the detailed description. This summary is notintended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subjectmatter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope ofthe claimed subject matter.

In one embodiment, a pipe segment includes a tubing inner barrier layerthat defines a pipe bore through the pipe segment, a venting tubingannulus implemented around the tubing inner barrier layer, in which theventing tubing annulus includes a first solid material implemented todefine a venting fluid conduit, a tubing intermediate barrier layerimplemented around the venting tubing annulus, a reinforcement tubingannulus implemented around the tubing intermediate barrier layer, and atubing outer barrier layer implemented around the reinforcement tubingannulus of the pipe segment. The reinforcement tubing annulus includes asecond solid material that is different from the first solid materialand is implemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit.Additionally, the venting fluid conduit implemented in the ventingtubing annulus facilitates venting fluid that permeates from the pipebore through the tubing inner barrier layer out from the pipe segmentbefore the fluid contacts the second solid material in the reinforcementtubing annulus.

In another embodiment, a method of implementing tubing of a pipe segmentincludes implementing an inner barrier layer of the tubing to define apipe bore through the pipe segment, implementing a venting tubingannulus around the inner barrier layer at least in part by implementinga venting layer of the tubing using a first solid material to facilitatedefining a venting fluid conduit that facilitates venting fluid thatpermeates through the inner barrier layer of the tubing out from thetubing of the pipe segment, implementing an intermediate barrier layerof the tubing around the venting tubing annulus, implementing areinforcement tubing annulus around the intermediate barrier layer ofthe tubing at least in part by implementing a reinforcement layer of thetubing using a second solid material that is different from the firstsolid material to facilitate defining a reinforcement fluid conduitwithin the tubing of the pipe segment, and implementing an outer barrierlayer of the tubing around the reinforcement tubing annulus.

In another embodiment, pipe segment tubing includes an inner barrierlayer that defines a pipe bore, an outer barrier layer implementedaround the inner barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing, areinforcement layer implemented between the inner barrier layer and theouter barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing, in which thereinforcement layer defines a reinforcement fluid conduit, a ventinglayer implemented between the inner barrier layer and the outer barrierlayer of the pipe segment tubing, in which the reinforcement layerdefines venting fluid conduit that facilitate venting fluid thatpermeates into the pipe segment tubing out from the pipe segment tubingbefore the fluid contacts solid material in the reinforcement layer ofthe pipe segment tubing, and an intermediate barrier layer implementedbetween the reinforcement layer and the venting layer of the pipesegment tubing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a pipeline system includingpipe segments and pipe fittings (e.g., connectors), in accordance withan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of an example of a pipe segment of FIG. 1 thatincludes a pipe bore defined by its tubing as well as fluid conduitsimplemented within an annulus of its tubing, in accordance with anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a portion of the pipesegment of FIG. 2 with a helically shaped fluid conduit implementedwithin the annulus of its tubing, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an axial cross-section profile of an example of a pipe segmentthat includes a single tubing annulus, in accordance with an embodimentof the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an axial cross-section profile of an example of a pipe segmentthat includes multiple (e.g., dual) tubing annuli, in accordance with anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an axial cross-section profile of an example of the multipletubing annuli pipe segment of FIG. 5 with a barrier tape implemented ina first orientation, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7 is an axial cross-section profile of an example of the multipletubing annuli pipe segment of FIG. 5 with a barrier tap implemented in asecond (e.g., opposite) orientation, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example process for implementing amultiple tubing annuli pipe segment, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is an axial cross-section profile of another example of a pipesegment that includes multiple (e.g., dual) tubing annuli, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of another example of a process forimplementing a multiple tubing annuli pipe segment, in accordance withan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an axial cross-section profile of another example of a pipesegment that includes multiple (e.g., three) tubing annuli, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will bedescribed below with reference to the figures. As used herein, the term“coupled” or “coupled to” may indicate establishing either a direct orindirect connection and, thus, is not limited to either unless expresslyreferenced as such. The term “set” may refer to one or more items.Wherever possible, like or identical reference numerals are used in thefigures to identify common or the same features. The figures are notnecessarily to scale. In particular, certain features and/or certainviews of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale for purposes ofclarification.

The present disclosure generally relates to pipeline systems that may beimplemented and/or operated to transport (e.g., convey) fluid, such asliquid and/or gas, from a fluid source to a fluid destination.Generally, a pipeline system may include pipe fittings (e.g.,connectors), such as a midline pipe fitting and/or a pipe end fitting,and one or more pipe segments, which each includes tubing that defines(e.g., encloses) a corresponding pipe bore. More specifically, a pipesegment may generally be secured and sealed in one or more pipe fittingsto facilitate fluidly coupling the pipe segment to another pipe segment,a fluid source, and/or a fluid destination. Merely as an illustrativenon-limiting example, a pipeline system may include a first pipe endfitting secured to a first pipe segment to facilitate fluidly couplingthe first pipe segment to the fluid source, a midline pipe fittingsecured between the first pipe segment and a second pipe segment tofacilitate fluidly coupling the first pipe segment to the second pipesegment, and a second pipe end fitting secured to the second pipesegment to facilitate fluidly coupling the second pipe segment to thefluid destination.

In any case, a pipe segment generally includes tubing, which defines(e.g., encloses) a pipe bore that provides a primary fluid conveyance(e.g., flow) path through the pipe segment. More specifically, thetubing of a pipe segment may be implemented to facilitate isolatingenvironmental conditions external to the pipe segment from conditionswithin its pipe bore and, thus, fluid that flows therethrough. Inparticular, the tubing of a pipe segment may primarily be implemented toblock fluid flow directly between the pipe bore of the pipe segment andits external environmental conditions, for example, in addition toproviding thermal, pressure, and/or electrical isolation (e.g.,insulation).

To facilitate improving fluid isolation, in some instances, the tubingof a pipe segment may be implemented with multiple layers. For example,the tubing of a pipe segment may include an inner (e.g., innermost)barrier layer (e.g., liner or sheath) and an outer (e.g., outermost)barrier layer (e.g., shield or sheath) that each run (e.g., span) thelength of the pipe segment. To facilitate blocking fluid flow directlytherethrough, the inner barrier layer and the outer barrier layer mayeach be a continuous layer of solid material, such as plastic, that runsthe length of the pipe segment.

To facilitate improving its tensile strength and/or its hoop strength,in some instances, the tubing of a pipe segment may additionally includeone or more reinforcement layers implemented between its inner barrierlayer and its outer barrier layer. In particular, a reinforcement layerof the pipe segment tubing may be implemented with a solid material thathas a higher tensile strength and/or a higher linear elasticity modulus(e.g., stiffness) as compared to a solid material used to implement theinner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer of the pipe segmenttubing. For example, the reinforcement layer of the pipe segment tubingmay be implemented using metal, such as steel, while the inner barrierlayer and the outer barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing areimplemented using plastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

Nevertheless, in some instances, a reinforcement layer of pipe segmenttubing may include solid material as well as one or more openings devoidof solid material, for example, to facilitate implementing a flexiblepipe that may be spooled on a reel and/or in a coil. Merely as anillustrative non-limiting example, the reinforcement layer of the pipesegment tubing may include solid material helically wrapped (e.g.,wound) on the inner barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing such thatgaps are left between adjacent wraps of the solid material to facilitatedefining a helically-shaped opening that runs along the pipe segmenttubing. In other words, in such instances, the reinforcement layer mayhave one or more gaps in which the solid material is not implementedand, thus, may be included in a reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipesegment tubing that is implemented between the inner barrier layer andthe outer barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing.

Even when implemented using a continuous layer of solid material, atleast in some instances, some amount of fluid (e.g., gas and/or liquid)may nevertheless permeate (e.g., pass) through the inner barrier layerand/or outer barrier layer of the tubing of a pipe segment. In otherwords, at least in some instances, some amount of fluid may permeatefrom the pipe bore of the pipe segment through the inner barrier layerof the tubing and/or from environmental conditions external to the pipesegment through the outer barrier layer of the tubing into thereinforcement tubing annulus of the pipe segment and, thus, contact thesolid material used to implement one or more reinforcement layersincluded in the reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipe segment.Moreover, at least in some instance, fluid that permeates through theinner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer, such as hydrogensulfide (H₂S) and/or carbon dioxide (CO₂), may potentially corrode thesolid material in one or more reinforcement layers of the pipe segmentand, thus, potentially weaken the tensile strength and/or the hoopstrength of the pipe segment.

Accordingly, to facilitate improving pipe segment tensile strengthand/or hoop strength, the present disclosure describes techniques forimplementing a pipe segment to facilitate reducing permeation of fluid(e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) into a reinforcement tubing annulusof the pipe segment, which is implemented between an inner barrier layerand an outer barrier layer of the tubing of the pipe segment. As will bedescribed in more detail below, to facilitate reducing fluid permeationinto the reinforcement tubing annulus, the pipe segment may additionallyinclude one or more intermediate barrier layer, which are eachimplemented between the inner barrier layer and the outer barrier layerof the pipe segment tubing. In particular, as will be described in moredetail below, an intermediate barrier layer of the pipe segment may beimplemented in the tubing of the pipe segment to facilitate separatingthe reinforcement tubing annulus in the pipe segment tubing from acorresponding venting tubing annulus in the pipe segment tubing.

For example, in some embodiments, the tubing of a pipe segment may beimplemented such that a venting tubing annulus of the pipe segmenttubing is implemented internal to an intermediate barrier layer of thepipe segment tubing while a reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipesegment tubing is implemented external to the intermediate barrierlayer. In other words, in such embodiments, the venting tubing annulusmay facilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) thatpermeates through the inner barrier layer of the pipe segment tubingbefore it reaches the reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipe segmenttubing, for example, at least in part by routing the fluid to a ventport implemented in a pipe fitting that is fluidly coupled to theventing tubing annulus. Additionally or alternatively, in someembodiments, the tubing of a pipe segment may be implemented such that aventing tubing annulus of the pipe segment tubing is implementedexternal to an intermediate barrier layer of the pipe segment tubingwhile a reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipe segment tubing isimplemented internal to the intermediate barrier layer. In other words,in such embodiments, the venting tubing annulus may facilitate ventingfluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid and/or external environmentalfluid) that permeates through the outer barrier layer of the pipesegment tubing before it reaches the reinforcement tubing annulus and/ora pipe bore of the pipe segment, for example, at least in part byrouting the fluid to a vent port implemented in a pipe fitting that isfluidly coupled to the venting tubing annulus.

To facilitate venting fluid, the venting tubing annulus of a pipesegment may include one or more venting layers, for example, implementedaround the inner barrier layer or an intermediate barrier layer of thetubing of the pipe segment to define one or more venting fluid conduits.In particular, in some embodiments, a venting layer of the pipe segmenttubing may be implemented at least in part by helically wrapping solidpermeation resistant material, such as a polymer (e.g., plastic) and/oraluminum, on a barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing such that gapsare left between adjacent wraps of the solid permeation resistantmaterial. Additionally or alternatively, to facilitate improving tensilestrength and/or hoop strength of the pipe segment, the solid materialused to implement the venting layer may be aluminum and/or anothermaterial that is less susceptible to interaction (e.g., corrosion) withfluid, such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), that permeates through the innerbarrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer of the pipe segment ascompared to the solid material (e.g., steel) that is used to implement areinforcement layer of the pipe segment.

In some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer or an outer barrierlayer of the tubing of a pipe segment may then be disposed directly overa venting layer included in the venting tubing annulus of the pipesegment. To facilitate reducing permeation therethrough, similar to theinner barrier layer and the outer barrier layer, the intermediatebarrier layer may be implemented as a continuous layer of solidmaterial. In fact, in some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer ofpipe segment tubing may be implemented using the same type of solidmaterial as the inner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer ofthe pipe segment tubing. However, in other embodiments, an intermediatebarrier layer of the tubing of a pipe segment may be implemented using adifferent type of solid material as compared to the inner barrier layerand/or the outer barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing. For example,the inner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer of the pipesegment tubing may be implemented using high-density polyethylene (HDPE)while an intermediate barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing isimplemented using a different type of solid material that is lesssusceptible to fluid permeation as compared to high-densitypolyethylene.

Additionally, in some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer of pipesegment tubing may be implemented at least in part by extruding (e.g.,melting and pulling) the intermediate barrier layer around a ventingtubing annulus of the pipe segment tubing. However, at least in someinstances, extruding the intermediate barrier layer directly around aventing layer included in the venting tubing annulus of the pipe segmenttubing may result in the intermediate barrier layer at least partiallyfalling into a venting fluid conduit defined in the venting layer of thepipe segment tubing. In other words, in such instances, the intermediatebarrier layer may at least partially block the venting fluid conduit,which, at least in some instances, may increase the fluid pressurewithin the venting tubing annulus and, thus, reduce the likelihood thatfluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) is vented out from within thepipe segment tubing before permeating through the intermediate barrierlayer into the reinforcement tubing annulus of the pipe segment tubing.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outer barrier layer of pipesegment tubing may be implemented at least in part by extruding (e.g.,melting and pulling) the outer barrier layer around a venting tubingannulus of the pipe segment tubing. However, at least in some instances,extruding the outer barrier layer directly around a venting layerincluded in the venting tubing annulus of the pipe segment tubing mayresult in the outer barrier layer at least partially falling into aventing fluid conduit defined in the venting layer of the pipe segmenttubing. In other words, in such instances, the outer barrier layer mayat least partially block the venting fluid conduit, which, at least insome instances, may increase the fluid pressure within the ventingtubing annulus and, thus, reduce the likelihood that fluid (e.g.,potentially corrosive fluid) is vented out from within the pipe segmenttubing before permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus of thepipe segment tubing.

To facilitate reducing the likelihood of the outer barrier layer of pipesegment tubing inadvertently blocking a venting fluid conduit defined ina venting layer of the pipe segment tubing, in some embodiments, thepipe segment tubing may additionally include barrier tape implementedbetween a venting tubing annulus and its outer barrier layer. Similarly,to facilitate reducing the likelihood of an intermediate barrier layerof pipe segment tubing inadvertently blocking a venting fluid conduitdefined in a venting layer of the pipe segment tubing, in someembodiments, the pipe segment tubing may additionally include barriertape implemented between a venting tubing annulus and an intermediatebarrier layer. In any case, barrier tape may generally include anadhesive layer and a barrier layer.

In particular, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer of barrier tapemay be heat activated. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the barrierlayer of barrier tape may be implemented using a solid material, such asa polymer and/or aluminum, that is less permeable to fluid (e.g.,potentially corrosive fluid) as compared to the adhesive layer of thebarrier tape and one or more barrier layers of the pipe segment tubing.Additionally or alternatively, to facilitate improving tensile strengthand/or hoop strength of the pipe segment tubing, the solid material usedto implement the barrier layer of the barrier tape may be aluminumand/or another material that is less susceptible to interaction (e.g.,corrosion) with fluid, such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), that permeatesthrough the inner barrier layer and/or the outer barrier layer of thepipe segment tubing as compared to the solid material (e.g., steel) thatis used to implement a reinforcement layer of the pipe segment tubing.In fact, in some embodiments, the barrier layer of the barrier tape maybe implemented using the same type of solid material as the ventinglayer of the pipe segment tubing.

In any case, in some embodiments, barrier tape may be implemented in apipe segment using a first orientation in which its adhesive layer isoriented inwardly (e.g., facing pipe bore) and its barrier layer isoriented outwardly (e.g., facing external environmental conditions).However, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer ofthe barrier tape may be implemented using solid material that is morepermeable to fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) than the barrierlayer of the barrier tape. In other words, when the barrier tape isimplemented using the first orientation, in some instances, fluid thatpermeates through the inner barrier layer of the tubing of the pipesegment may permeate through the adhesive layer of the barrier tapebefore being blocked by the barrier layer of the barrier tape.

In fact, at least in some instance, implementing barrier tape in a pipesegment using the first orientation may result in fluid that permeatesthrough its inner barrier layer being present between the adhesive layerand the barrier layer of the barrier tape when a pipeline system inwhich the pipe segment is deployed is depressurized. Generally, duringoperation, a pipeline system is pressurized to facilitate producing afluid flow through the pipe bore of one or more pipe segments deployedtherein. On the other hand, operation of the pipeline system maygenerally be stopped at least in part by depressurizing the pipelinesystem. However, depressurizing the pipeline system may cause fluidpresent between the adhesive layer and the barrier layer of the barriertape to expand, which, at least in some instances, may result in theadhesive layer and the barrier layer of the barrier tape separating fromone another and, thus, potentially produce a fault, such as a hole, inthe barrier tape.

To facilitate reducing the likelihood of faults occurring in barriertape in a pipe segment, in some embodiments, barrier tape mayadditionally or alternatively be implemented in the pipe segment using asecond (e.g., different and/or opposite) orientation in which itsadhesive layer is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing externalenvironmental conditions) and its barrier layer is oriented inwardly(e.g., facing pipe bore). In particular, in such embodiments, thebarrier layer of the barrier tape may block fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid) that permeates through the inner barrier layer of thetubing of the pipe segment before it reaches the adhesive layer of thebarrier tape. In other words, at least in some instances, implementingthe barrier tape in the pipe segment using the second orientation mayfacilitate reducing the amount of fluid that is present between thebarrier layer and the adhesive layer of the barrier tape when thepipeline system is depressurized and, thus, the likelihood that thedepressurization produces a fault, such as a hole, in the barrier tapeof the pipe segment. In this manner, as will be described in more detailbelow, the techniques described in the present disclosure may facilitateimproving the tensile strength and/or the hoop strength of one or morepipe segments deployed in a pipeline system.

To help illustrate, an example of a pipeline system 10 is shown inFIG. 1. As in the depicted example, the pipeline system 10 may becoupled between a bore fluid source 12 and a bore fluid destination 14.Merely as an illustrative non-limiting example, the bore fluid source 12may be a production well and the bore fluid destination 14 may be afluid storage tank. In other instances, the bore fluid source 12 may bea first (e.g., lease facility) storage tank and the bore fluiddestination 14 may be a second (e.g., refinery) storage tank.

In any case, the pipeline system 10 may generally be implemented and/oroperated to facilitate transporting (e.g., conveying) fluid, such as gasand/or liquid, from the bore fluid source 12 to the bore fluiddestination 14. In fact, in some embodiments, the pipeline system 10 maybe used in many applications, including without limitation, both onshoreand offshore oil and gas applications. For example, in such embodiments,the pipeline system 10 may be used to transport one or morehydrocarbons, such as crude oil, petroleum, natural gas, or anycombination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the pipeline system10 may be used to transport one or more other types of fluid, such asproduced water, fresh water, fracturing fluid, flowback fluid, carbondioxide, or any combination thereof.

To facilitate flowing fluid to the bore fluid destination 14, in someembodiments, the bore fluid source 12 may include one or more bore fluidpumps 16 that are implemented and/or operated to inject (e.g., pumpand/or supply) fluid from the bore fluid source 12 into a bore of thepipeline system 10. However, it should be appreciated that the depictedexample is merely intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Inparticular, in other embodiments, one or more bore fluid pumps 16 maynot be implemented at the bore fluid source 12, for example, when fluidflow through the bore of the pipeline system 10 is produced by gravity.Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, one or more borefluid pumps 16 may be implemented in the pipeline system 10 and/or atthe bore fluid destination 14.

To facilitate transporting fluid from the bore fluid source 12 to thebore fluid destination 14, as in the depicted example, a pipeline system10 may include one or more pipe fittings (e.g., connectors) 18 and oneor more pipe segments 20. For example, the depicted pipeline system 10includes a first pipe segment 20A, a second pipe segment 20B, and an Nthpipe segment 20N. Additionally, the depicted pipeline system 10 includesa first pipe (e.g., end) fitting 18A, which couples the bore fluidsource 12 to the first pipe segment 20A, a second pipe (e.g., midline)fitting 18B, which couples the first pipe segment 20A to the second pipesegment 20B, and an Nth pipe (e.g., end) fitting 18N, which couples theNth pipe segment 20N to the bore fluid destination 14.

However, it should again be appreciated that the depicted example ismerely intended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, inother embodiments, a pipeline system 10 may include fewer (e.g., one)pipe segments 20. Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, apipeline system 10 may include fewer (e.g., two) pipe fittings 18.

In any case, as described above, a pipe segment 20 generally includestubing that may be used to convey (e.g., transfer and/or transport)water, gas, oil, and/or any other suitable type of fluid. The tubing ofa pipe segment 20 may be made of any suitable type of material, such asplastic, metal, and/or a composite (e.g., fiber-reinforced composite)material. In fact, as will be described in more detail below, in someembodiments, the tubing of a pipe segment 20 may be implemented usingmultiple different layers. For example, the tubing of a pipe segment 20may include a first high-density polyethylene (e.g., internal corrosionprotection) layer, one or more reinforcement (e.g., steel strip) layersexternal to the first high-density polyethylene layer, and a secondhigh-density polyethylene (e.g., external corrosion protection) layerexternal to the one or more reinforcement layers.

Additionally, as in the depicted example, one or more (e.g., secondand/or Nth) pipe segments 20 in a pipeline system 10 may be curved. Tofacilitate implementing a curve in a pipe segment 20, in someembodiments, the pipe segment 20 may be flexible, for example, such thatthe pipe segment 20 is spoolable on a reel and/or in a coil (e.g.,during transport and/or before deployment of the pipe segment 20). Inother words, in some embodiments, one or more pipe segments 20 in thepipeline system 10 may be a flexible pipe, such as a bonded flexiblepipe, an unbonded flexible pipe, a flexible composite pipe (FCP), athermoplastic composite pipe (TCP), or a reinforced thermoplastic pipe(RTP). In fact, at least in some instances, increasing flexibility of apipe segment 20 may facilitate improving deployment efficiency of apipeline system 10, for example, by obviating a curved (e.g., elbow)pipe fitting 18 and/or enabling the pipe segment 20 to be transported tothe pipeline system 10, deployed in the pipeline system 10, or bothusing a tighter spool.

To facilitate improving pipe flexibility, in some embodiments, thetubing of a pipe segment 20 that defines (e.g., encloses) its pipe boremay include one or more openings devoid of solid material. In fact, insome embodiments, an opening in the tubing of a pipe segment 20 may run(e.g., span) the length of the pipe segment 20 and, thus, define (e.g.,enclose) a fluid conduit in the annulus of the tubing, which is separatefrom the pipe bore. In other words, in such embodiments, fluid may flowthrough a pipe segment 20 via its pipe bore, a fluid conduit implementedwithin its tubing annulus, or both.

To help illustrate, an example of a pipe segment 20, which includestubing 22 with fluid conduits 24 implemented in a tubing annulus 25, isshown in FIG. 2. As depicted, the pipe segment tubing 22 is implementedwith multiple layers including an inner (e.g., innermost) barrier layer26 and an outer (e.g., outermost) barrier layer 28. In some embodiments,the inner barrier layer 26 and/or the outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22 may be implemented using composite material and/orplastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and/or raisedtemperature polyethylene (PE-RT). Although a number of particular layersare depicted, it should be understood that the techniques described inthe present disclosure may be broadly applicable to composite pipe bodystructures including two or more layers, for example, as distinguishedfrom a rubber or plastic single-layer hose subject to vulcanization. Inany case, as depicted, an inner surface 30 of the inner barrier layer 26defines (e.g., encloses) a pipe bore 32 through which fluid can flow,for example, to facilitate transporting fluid from a bore fluid source12 to a bore fluid destination 14.

Additionally, as depicted, the annulus 25 of the pipe segment tubing 22is implemented between its inner barrier layer 26 and its outer barrierlayer 28. As will be described in more detail below, the tubing annulus25 may include one or more intermediate layer of the pipe segment tubing22. Furthermore, as depicted, fluid conduits 24 running along the lengthof the pipe segment 20 are defined (e.g., enclosed) in the tubingannulus 25. As described above, a fluid conduit 24 in the tubing annulus25 may be devoid of solid material. As such, pipe segment tubing 22 thatincludes one or more fluid conduits 24 therein may include less solidmaterial and, thus, exert less resistance to flexure, for example,compared to solid pipe segment tubing 22 and/or pipe segment tubing 22that does not include fluid conduits 24 implemented therein. Moreover,to facilitate further improving pipe flexibility, in some embodiments,one or more layers in the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 may be unbondedfrom one or more other layers in the tubing 22 and, thus, the pipesegment 20 may be an unbonded pipe.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, in otherembodiments, pipe segment tubing 22 may include fewer (e.g., one) ormore (e.g., three, four, or more) fluid conduits 24 defined in itstubing annulus 25. Additionally, although a single tubing annulus 25 isdepicted, as will be described in more detail below, the presentdisclosure provides techniques for implementing a pipe segment 20 withmultiple (e.g., dual) tubing annuli 25. Furthermore, in otherembodiments, a fluid conduit 24 defined in a tubing annulus 25 of a pipesegment 20 run non-parallel to the pipe bore 32 of the pipe segment 20,for example, such that the fluid conduit 24 is skewed relative to theaxial (e.g., longitudinal) extent of the pipe bore 32.

To help illustrate, an example of a portion 36 of a pipe segment 20,which includes an inner barrier layer 26 and an intermediate layer 34included in a tubing annulus 25 of its pipe segment tubing 22, is shownin FIG. 3. In some embodiments, one or more intermediate layers 34 ofthe pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented at least in part usingcomposite material, a polymer (e.g., plastic), and/or metal, such ascarbon steel, stainless steel, duplex stainless steel, super duplexstainless steel, or any combination thereof. In other words, at least insome such embodiments, an intermediate layer 34 of the pipe segmenttubing 22 may be implemented using electrically conductive, which, atleast in some instances, may enable communication of electrical (e.g.,test and/or return) signals via the intermediate layer 34.

In any case, as depicted, the intermediate layer 34 is helicallydisposed (e.g., wound and/or wrapped) on the inner barrier layer 26 suchthat gaps (e.g., openings) are left between adjacent windings to definea fluid conduit 24. In other words, in some embodiments, theintermediate layer 34 may be implemented at least in part by winding asolid strip of material around the inner barrier layer 26 at a non-zerolay angle (e.g., fifty-four degrees) relative to the axial (e.g.,longitudinal) extent of the pipe bore 32. In any case, as depicted, theresulting fluid conduit 24 runs helically along the pipe segment 20, forexample, such that the fluid conduit 24 is skewed fifty-four degreesrelative to the axial extent of the pipe bore 32.

In some embodiments, an outer barrier layer 28 may be disposed directlyover the depicted intermediate layer 34 and, thus, cover and/or define(e.g., enclose) the depicted fluid conduit 24. However, in otherembodiments, the tubing annulus 25 of pipe segment tubing 22 may includemultiple (e.g., two, three, four, or more) intermediate layers 34. Inother words, in such embodiments, one or more other intermediate layers34 may be disposed over the depicted intermediate layer 34. In fact, insome such embodiments, the one or more other intermediate layers 34 mayalso each be helically disposed such that gaps are left between adjacentwindings to implement one or more corresponding fluid conduits 24 in thepipe segment tubing 22.

For example, a first other intermediate layer 34 may be helicallydisposed on the depicted intermediate layer 34 using the same non-zerolay angle as the depicted intermediate layer 34 to cover (e.g., defineand/or enclose) the depicted fluid conduit 24 and to implement anotherfluid conduit 24 in the first other intermediate layer 34. Additionally,a second other intermediate layer 34 may be helically disposed on thefirst other intermediate layer 34 using another non-zero lay angle,which is the inverse of the non-zero lay angle of the depictedintermediate layer 34, to implement another fluid conduit 24 in thesecond other intermediate layer 34. Furthermore, a third otherintermediate layer 34 may be helically disposed on the second otherintermediate layer 34 using the same non-zero lay angle as the secondother intermediate layer 34 to cover the other fluid conduit 24 in thesecond other intermediate layer 34 and to implement another fluidconduit 24 in the third other intermediate layer 34. In someembodiments, an outer barrier layer 28 may be disposed over the thirdother intermediate layer 34 and, thus, cover (e.g., define and/orenclose) the other fluid conduit 24 in the third other intermediatelayer 34.

In any case, as described above, in some embodiments, the depictedintermediate layer 34 may be implemented using a solid material that hasa stronger tensile strength and/or a stronger linear elasticity modulus(e.g., stiffness) as compared to a solid material used to implement theinner barrier layer 26 and the outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22. For example, the depicted intermediate layer 34 maybe implemented using metal, such as steel, while the inner barrier layer26 and the outer barrier layer 28 are implemented using plastic, such ashigh-density polyethylene (HDPE). In other words, in such embodiments,the depicted intermediate layer 34 may be a reinforcement layer of thepipe segment tubing 22 and the depicted tubing annulus 25 may be areinforcement tubing annulus 25 of the pipe segment tubing 22.

To help illustrate, an example of pipe segment tubing 22A that includesa reinforcement (e.g., intermediate) layer 36 and a reinforcement tubingannulus 25A is shown in FIG. 4. In particular, as depicted, thereinforcement layer 36 is implemented to define a reinforcement fluidconduit 24A in the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. In someembodiments, the reinforcement layer 36 of the pipe segment tubing 22Amay be implemented using metal, such as carbon steel, stainless steel,duplex stainless steel, super duplex stainless steel, or any combinationthereof.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, although asingle reinforcement layer 36 is depicted, as described above, in otherembodiments, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of a pipe segment 20may include multiple reinforcement layers 36. Moreover, although asingle tubing annulus 25 is depicted, as will be described in moredetail below, the present disclosure provides techniques forimplementing a pipe segment 20 with multiple (e.g., dual) tubing annuli25, for example, which includes one or more venting tubing annuli 25 inaddition to a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A.

In any case, as depicted, the pipe segment tubing 22A additionallyincludes an inner barrier layer 26, which is implemented to define apipe bore 32, and an outer barrier layer 28, which is implemented aroundthe reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. To facilitate providing fluidisolation, as described above, in some embodiments, the inner barrierlayer 26 and the outer barrier layer 28 may each be implemented using acontinuous solid layer of plastic, such as high-density polyethylene(HDPE) and/or raised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT). In other words,when the reinforcement layer 36 is implemented using metal, in suchembodiments, the reinforcement layer 36 may provide more tensilestrength and/or more hoop strength as compared to the inner barrierlayer 26 and the outer barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment tubing 22A.

However, at least in some instances, even when implemented as acontinuous solid layer of material, some amount of fluid maynevertheless permeate from the pipe bore 32 through the inner barrierlayer 26 and/or from external environmental conditions through the outerbarrier layer 28. In other words, in the depicted example, the fluidthat permeates through the inner barrier layer 26 and/or the outerbarrier layer 28 may flow into the reinforcement fluid conduit 24Adefined by the reinforcement layer 36 and, thus, contact the solidmaterial of the reinforcement layer 36. As described above, in someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 and/or the outer barrier layer28 may be implemented using different types of solid material ascompared to a reinforcement layer 36 of pipe segment tubing 22, forexample, such that the inner barrier layer 26 and the outer barrierlayer 28 are implemented using plastic while the reinforcement layer 36is implemented using metal. In fact, in some instances, the solidmaterial used to implement the reinforcement layer 36 may be moresusceptible to corrosion as compared to the solid material used toimplement the inner barrier layer 26 and/or the outer barrier layer 28.

Thus, to facilitate improving the tensile strength and/or hoop strengthof a pipe segment 20, the present disclosure provides techniques forimplementing pipe segment tubing 22 such that the pipe segment tubing 22facilitates venting fluid that may potentially corrode the solidmaterial in a reinforcement layer 36 of the pipe segment tubing 22 outfrom within the pipe segment tubing 22 before the potentially corrosivefluid reaches the reinforcement layer 36 of the pipe segment tubing 22,for example, at least in part by routing the potentially corrosive fluidto a vent port on a pipe fitting 18 that is fluidly coupled to the pipesegment tubing 22. As will be described in more detail below, tofacilitate venting fluid, the present disclosure provides techniques forimplementing a pipe segment 20 to include one or more venting tubingannuli 25 in addition to a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. Inparticular, in some embodiments, a venting tubing annulus 25B may beimplemented external to the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and, thus,facilitate reducing the amount and/or likelihood of fluid (e.g.,potentially corrosive fluid) permeating into the reinforcement tubingannulus 25A of the pipe segment 20, for example, in addition to reducingthe amount and/or likelihood of fluid permeating into a pipe bore 32 ofthe pipe segment 20 and, thus, contaminating fluid (e.g., clean and/orpotable water) in the pipe bore 32. Additionally or alternatively, aventing tubing annulus 25 may be implemented internal to thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A and, thus, facilitate reducing theamount and/or likelihood of fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid)permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment20.

To help illustrate, an example of pipe segment tubing 22B, whichincludes a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and a venting tubing annulus25B, is shown in FIG. 5. In particular, as depicted the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A includes a reinforcement layer 36 that is implementedto define a reinforcement fluid conduit 24A. In some embodiments, thereinforcement layer 36 of FIG. 5 may generally match the reinforcementlayer 36 of FIG. 4 and/or the reinforcement fluid conduit 24A of FIG. 5may generally match the reinforcement fluid conduit 24A of FIG. 4.

In any case, as depicted in FIG. 5, the pipe segment tubing 22Badditionally includes an inner barrier layer 26 and an outer barrierlayer 28. In particular, as depicted, the inner barrier layer 26 isimplemented to define a pipe bore 32 and the outer barrier layer 28 isimplemented around the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. In someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 5 may generally matchthe inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 4 and/or the outer barrier layer 28of FIG. 5 may generally match the outer barrier layer 28 of FIG. 4.

In addition to the inner barrier layer 26 and the outer barrier layer28, as depicted in FIG. 5, the pipe segment tubing 22B includes anintermediate barrier layer 38, which is implemented to separate thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A and the venting tubing annulus 25B. Tofacilitate providing fluid isolation, in some embodiments, theintermediate barrier layer 38 may be implemented using a continuoussolid layer of a polymer (e.g., plastic), such as high-densitypolyethylene (HDPE) and/or raised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT). Infact, in some embodiments, the intermediate barrier layer 38 may beimplemented using the same solid material as the inner barrier layer 26and/or the outer barrier layer 28. However, in other embodiments, theintermediate barrier layer 38 may be implemented using a different solidmaterial as compared to the inner barrier layer 26 and/or the outerbarrier layer 28. In particular, in some such embodiments, theintermediate barrier layer 38 may be implemented with a solid materialthat is less permeable to fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) ascompared to the solid material used to implement the inner barrier layer26, for example, to facilitate venting fluid out from the venting tubingannulus 25B faster than the fluid permeates into the venting tubingannulus 25B and, thus, reducing permeation of the fluid into thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A that is implemented external to theventing tubing annulus 25B.

To facilitate venting fluid therefrom, as depicted, the venting tubingannulus 25B includes a venting layer 40 that is implemented tofacilitate defining a venting fluid conduit 24B, for example, which maybe fluidly coupled to a vent port implemented on a pipe fitting 18. Inparticular, in some embodiments, the venting layer 40 may be implementedwith a solid material that is less susceptible to corrosion as comparedto the solid material used to implement the reinforcement layer 36.Additionally, in some embodiments, the venting layer 40 may beimplemented with a solid material that resists permeation of fluid thatis potentially corrosive to the solid material used to implement thereinforcement layer 36. For example, the venting layer 40 may beimplemented using a polymer (e.g., plastic) and/or aluminum while thereinforcement layer 36 is implemented using steel. Thus, in suchembodiments, implementing pipe segment tubing 22 in this manner mayfacilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) thatpermeates through an inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment tubing22 before it reaches a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipesegment tubing 22, for example, at least in part by using a ventingtubing annulus 25B implemented between the inner barrier layer 26 andthe reinforcement tubing annulus 25A to route the fluid to a vent porton a pipe fitting 18 that is fluidly coupled to the venting tubingannulus 25A.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, although asingle venting layer 40 is depicted, in other embodiments, the ventingtubing annulus 25B of a pipe segment 20 may include multiple ventinglayers 40. Additionally or alternatively, although a singlereinforcement layer 36 is depicted, as described above, in otherembodiments, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of a pipe segment 20may include multiple reinforcement layers 36. Furthermore, as will bedescribed in more detail below, in other embodiments, pipe segmenttubing 22 may be implemented to include multiple venting tubing annuli25B, for example, which include a first venting tubing annuli 25B thatis implemented internal to a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of thepipe segment tubing 22 and a second venting tubing annuli 25B that isimplemented external to the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipesegment tubing 22. Moreover, as will be described in more detail below,in other embodiments, pipe segment tubing 22 may additionally includebarrier tape, for example, implemented between a reinforcement layer 36and an outer barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment tubing 22, between aventing layer 40 and an intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipesegment tubing 22, between a reinforcement layer 36 and an intermediatebarrier layer 38 of the pipe segment tubing 22, between a venting layer40 and an outer barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment tubing 22, or anycombination thereof.

In any case, in some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer 38 of apipe segment 20 may be implemented at least in part by extruding (e.g.,melting and pulling) the intermediate barrier layer 38 over a ventingtubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment 20. However, at least in someinstances, extruding the intermediate barrier layer 38 may result in theintermediate barrier layer 38 at least partially falling into a ventingfluid conduit 24B defined in the venting tubing annulus 25B. In otherwords, in such instances, the intermediate barrier layer 38 may at leastpartially block the venting fluid conduit 24B, which, at least in someinstances, may increase the fluid pressure within the venting tubingannulus 25B and, thus, reduce the likelihood that fluid (e.g.,potentially corrosive fluid) is vented out from the venting tubingannulus 25B before permeating through the intermediate barrier layer 38into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment 20. Tofacilitate reducing the likelihood of the intermediate barrier layer 38inadvertently blocking the venting fluid conduit 24B defined in theventing tubing annulus 25B, in some embodiments, barrier tape may beimplemented therebetween.

To help illustrate, another example of pipe segment tubing 22C, whichincludes barrier tape 42 implemented between its venting tubing annulus25B and its intermediate barrier layer 38, is shown in FIG. 6. Inparticular, as depicted, the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipesegment tubing 22C includes a venting layer 40 that implemented tofacilitate defining a venting fluid conduit 24B. In some embodiments,the venting tubing annulus 25B of FIG. 6 may generally match the ventingtubing annulus 25B of FIG. 5.

As depicted, the pipe segment tubing 22C additionally includes an innerbarrier layer 26, an outer barrier layer 28, and a reinforcement tubingannulus 25A. In particular, as depicted, the reinforcement tubingannulus 25A of the pipe segment tubing 22C includes a reinforcementlayer 36 that is implemented to facilitate defining a reinforcementfluid conduit 24A. In some embodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 ofFIG. 6 may generally match the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 4, theouter barrier layer 28 of FIG. 6 may generally match the outer barrierlayer 28 of FIG. 4, and/or the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG.6 may generally match the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG. 4.Additionally, in some embodiments, the intermediate barrier layer 38 ofFIG. 6 may generally match the intermediate barrier layer 38 of FIG. 5.

However, as depicted in FIG. 6, barrier tape 42 is implemented betweenthe intermediate barrier layer 38 and the venting tubing annulus 25B ofthe pipe segment tubing 22C. In particular, as in the depicted example,barrier tape 42 implemented in a pipe segment 20 may include an adhesivelayer 44 and a barrier layer 46. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Additionally, in someembodiments, the barrier layer 46 of barrier tape 42 may be implementedwith a permeation resistant material, such as a polymer (e.g., plastic)and/or aluminum. In other words, in some such embodiments, the barrierlayer 46 of the barrier tape 42 may be implemented with a solid materialthat is more resistant to permeation of fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid) than the adhesive material used to implement theadhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42.

In any case, in the depicted example, the barrier tape 42 is implementedin an (e.g., first) orientation in which its adhesive layer 44 isoriented inwardly (e.g., facing pipe bore 32) and its barrier layer 46is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing external environmental conditions).When the barrier layer 46 of the barrier tape 42 is more resistant tofluid permeation than the adhesive layer 44, at least in some instances,implementing the barrier tape 42 in this manner may result in fluid thatpermeates through the inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment tubing22C also permeating through the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42before being blocked by the barrier layer 46 of the barrier tape 42. Inother words, during operation of a pipeline system 10 in which the pipesegment 22C is deployed, some amount of fluid may be present between theadhesive layer 44 and the barrier layer 46 of the barrier tape 42.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, in otherembodiments, a pipe segment 20 may additionally or alternatively includebarrier tape 42 implemented between its reinforcement tubing annulus 25Aand its outer barrier layer 28. In some such embodiments, the barriertape 42 implemented between the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and theouter barrier layer 28 may also be in an (e.g., first) orientation inwhich its adhesive layer 44 is oriented inwardly (e.g., facing pipe bore32) and its barrier layer 46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facingexternal environmental conditions).

In any case, as described above, during operation, a pipeline system 10is generally pressurized to facilitate producing fluid flowtherethrough. On the other hand, when not in operation, the pipelinesystem 10 may generally be depressurized. However, depressurizing fluid,such as gas, generally results in the fluid expanding in size. In fact,at least in some instance, expansion of fluid present between theadhesive layer 44 and the barrier layer 46 of the barrier tape 42 in apipe segment 20 due to depressurization of a pipeline system 10 in whichthe pipe segment 20 is deployed may result in the adhesive layer 44 andthe barrier layer 46 of the barrier tape 42 separating from one anotherand, thus, potentially producing a fault, such as a hole, in the barriertape 42. As will be described in more detail below, to facilitatereducing the likelihood of faults occurring in barrier tape 42, in someembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in a pipe segment 20using an opposite (e.g., second and/or different) orientation.

To help illustrate, another example of pipe segment tubing 22D, whichincludes barrier tape 42, is shown in FIG. 7. As depicted, the pipesegment tubing 22D additionally include an inner barrier layer 26, anouter barrier layer 28, a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, a ventingtubing annulus 25B, and an intermediate barrier layer 40. In someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 7 may generally matchthe inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 4, the outer barrier layer 28 of FIG.7 may generally match the outer barrier layer 28 of FIG. 4, and/or thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG. 7 may generally match thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG. 4. Additionally, in someembodiments, the venting tubing annulus 25B of FIG. 7 may generallymatch the venting tubing annulus 25B of FIG. 5 and/or the intermediatebarrier layer 38 of FIG. 7 may generally match the intermediate barrierlayer 38 of FIG. 5.

Moreover, similar to FIG. 6, the barrier tape 42 in FIG. 7 includes anadhesive layer 44 and a barrier layer 46. As described above, thebarrier tape 42 in FIG. 6 is implemented in a first orientation in whichits adhesive layer 44 is oriented inwardly (e.g., facing pipe bore 32)and its barrier layer 46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing externalenvironmental conditions). However, as depicted, the barrier tape 42 inFIG. 7 is implemented in a second (e.g., different and/or opposite)orientation in which its barrier layer 46 is oriented inwardly (e.g.,facing pipe bore 32) and its adhesive layer 44 is oriented outwardly(e.g., facing external environmental conditions). As described above, insome embodiments, the barrier layer 46 of barrier tape 42 may beimplemented with a solid material that is less susceptible to permeationof fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) as compared to the adhesivematerial used to implement the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42.In other words, in such embodiments, implementing the barrier tape 42using the second orientation may enable the barrier layer 46 of thebarrier tape 42 to block the fluid that permeates through the innerbarrier layer 26 before it reaches the adhesive layer 44 of the barriertape 42, which, at least in some instances, may facilitate reducing theamount of fluid that is present between the barrier layer 46 and theadhesive layer of the barrier tape 42 and, thus, the likelihood thatdepressurization of a pipeline system 10 in which the pipe segmenttubing 22D is deployed causes a fault to develop in the barrier tape 42.

Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesivelayer 44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Furthermore, asdescribed above, in some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer 38may be implemented around the barrier tape 42 at least in part byextruding the intermediate barrier layer 38. In fact, in some suchembodiments, implementing the barrier tape 42 using the secondorientation in which the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42 isoriented outwardly may facilitate obviating a separate heating processfor activating the adhesive layer 44 and, thus, reducing implementationassociated cost of a pipe segment 20, for example, due to heatapplication used to extrude the intermediate barrier layer 38 beingsufficient to activate the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42.

In any case, as depicted, the barrier tape 42 may be wrapped around aventing layer 40 included in the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipesegment tubing 22D to facilitate defining a venting fluid conduit 24B.For example, in some embodiments, the venting layer 40 may be helicallywrapped on the inner barrier layer 26 to facilitate defining ahelically-shaped venting fluid conduit 24B. To facilitate reducing thelikelihood of fluid inadvertently leaking through the barrier tape 42,as in the depicted example, the barrier tape 42 may be wrapped such thatadjacent wraps of the barrier tape 42 partially overlap. Additionally,to facilitate further reducing the likelihood of fluid inadvertentlyleaking through the barrier tape 42, as in the depicted example, thebarrier tape 42 may be wrapped such that the junction 43 betweenadjacent wraps of the barrier tape 42 overlap (e.g., are aligned) withsolid material used to implement the venting layer 40 on which thebarrier tape 42 is wrapped.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, in otherembodiments, a pipe segment 20 may additionally or alternatively includebarrier tape 42 implemented between its reinforcement tubing annulus 25Aand its outer barrier layer 28. In some such embodiments, the barriertape 42 between the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and its outerbarrier layer 28 may be also be implemented using a second orientationin which its barrier layer 46 is oriented inwardly (e.g., facing pipebore 32) and its adhesive layer 44 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facingexternal environmental conditions). In any case, in this manner, thepresent disclosure provides techniques for implementing a pipe segment20 with multiple tubing annuli 25, which, at least in some instances,may facilitate improving tensile strength and/or hoop strength of thepipe segment 20, for example, at least in part by enabling the pipesegment 20 to vent fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) thatpermeates through an inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20before it reaches the solid material used to implement a reinforcementlayer 36 in the pipe segment 20.

To help further illustrate, an example of a process 48 for implementinga pipe segment 20 with multiple tubing annuli 25 is described in FIG. 8.Generally, the process 48 includes implementing a tubing inner barrierlayer to define a pipe bore (process block 50) and implementing aventing tubing annulus around the tubing inner barrier layer (processblock 52). Additionally, the process 48 includes implementing a tubingintermediate barrier layer around the venting tubing annulus (processblock 54), implementing a reinforcement tubing annulus around the tubingintermediate barrier layer (process block 56), and implementing a tubingouter barrier layer around the reinforcement tubing annulus (processblock 58).

Although described in a specific order, which corresponds with anembodiment of the present disclosure, it should be appreciated that theexample process 48 is merely intended to be illustrative and notlimiting. In particular, in other embodiments, a process 48 forimplementing a pipe segment 20 with multiple tubing annuli 25 mayinclude one or more additional process blocks and/or omit one or more ofthe depicted process blocks. For example, some embodiments of theprocess 48 may additionally include implementing barrier tape around theventing tubing annulus (process block 60) while other embodiments of theprocess 48 do not. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments ofthe process 48 may additionally include implementing barrier tape aroundthe reinforcement tubing annulus (process block 62) while otherembodiments of the process 48 do not.

In any case, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an inner barrier layer 26, which is implemented to define a pipebore 32 through the pipe segment 20. As such, implementing the pipesegment 20 may include implementing an inner barrier layer 26 to definea pipe bore 32 through the pipe segment 20 (process block 50). Inparticular, as described above, in some embodiments, the inner barrierlayer 26 of pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented using compositematerial and/or plastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and/orraised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT). Additionally, in someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 may be implemented at least inpart by extruding the inner barrier layer 26.

Furthermore, to facilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentially corrosivefluid) that permeates through its inner barrier layer 26, before thefluid reaches its reinforcement tubing annulus 25B as described above,the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 may include a venting tubing annulus25B implemented around its inner barrier layer 26. As such, implementingthe pipe segment 20 may include implementing a venting tubing annulus25B around the inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20 (processblock 52). In particular, as described above, the venting tubing annulus25B may include one or more venting layers 40 that are each implementedusing a solid material that is more resistant to permeation of fluid(e.g., potentially corrosive fluid) than the solid material used toimplement the inner barrier layer 26. In other words, a venting layer 40included in the venting tubing annulus 25B may be implemented using apermeation resistant material, such as a polymer (e.g., plastic) and/oraluminum.

Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, a venting layer40 included in a venting tubing annulus 25B of a pipe segment 20 may beimplemented to enable the venting layer 40 to be wrapped on an innerbarrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20 such that the venting layer 40facilitates defining a venting fluid conduit 24B. In other words, insuch embodiments, implementing the venting tubing annulus 25B mayinclude wrapping a venting layer 40 around the inner barrier layer 26 ofthe pipe segment 20 to facilitate defining a venting fluid conduit 24B(process block 64). For example, the venting layer 40 may be helicallywrapped on the inner barrier layer 26 to facilitate defining ahelically-shaped venting fluid conduit 24B. As described above, theventing fluid conduit 24B may facilitate venting fluid (e.g.,potentially corrosive fluid) that permeates through the inner barrierlayer 26 out from the pipe segment 20 before the fluid permeates into areinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment 20, which isimplemented external to the venting tubing annulus 25B, for example, atleast in part by routing the fluid to a vent port on a pipe fitting 18that is fluidly coupled to the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipesegment 20.

To facilitate further reducing the likelihood of potentially corrosivefluid permeating into its reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, in someembodiments, a pipe segment 20 may additionally include scavengermaterial disposed within a venting fluid conduit 24B defined in itsventing tubing annulus 25B. In other words, in such embodiments,implementing the venting tubing annulus 25B may include disposingscavenger material within one or more venting fluid conduits 24B definedin the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment 20 (process block66). For example, to facilitate reducing the likelihood of hydrogensulfide (H₂S) permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, thepipe segment 20 may include a scavenger material that consumes hydrogensulfide in one or more of its venting fluid conduits 24B. Additionallyor alternatively, to facilitate reducing the likelihood of carbondioxide (CO₂) permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, thepipe segment 20 may include a scavenger material that consumes carbondioxide in one or more of its venting fluid conduits 24B.

Moreover, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an intermediate barrier layer 38, which is implemented aroundits venting tubing annulus 25B. As such, implementing the pipe segment20 may include implementing an intermediate barrier layer 38 around itsventing tubing annulus 25B (process block 54). In particular, asdescribed above, in some embodiments, the intermediate barrier layer 38of the pipe segment 20 may be implemented using a solid material that ismore resistant to permeation of fluid (e.g., potentially corrosivefluid) than the solid material used to implement the inner barrier layer40 of the pipe segment 20.

However, as described above, in some embodiments, the tubing 22 of apipe segment 20 may include barrier tape 42 implemented between itsventing tubing annulus 25B and its intermediate barrier layer 38. Inother words, in such embodiments, implementing the pipe segment 20 mayinclude implementing barrier tape 42 around its venting tubing annulus25B, for example, before the intermediate barrier layer 38 isimplemented (process block 60). That is, in such embodiments,implementing the barrier tape 42 may include implementing the barriertape 42 around a venting layer 40 included in the venting tubing annulus25B.

In any case, as described above, barrier tape 42 implemented in pipesegment tubing 22 may generally include an adhesive layer 44 and abarrier layer 46. In particular, as described above, in someembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a first orientation in which its adhesive layer 44 is orientedinwardly (e.g., facing venting tubing annulus 25B) and its barrier layer46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing intermediate barrier layer 38).However, as described above, to facilitate reducing the likelihood offaults, such as a hole, developing in the barrier tape 42, in otherembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a second (e.g., different and/or opposite) orientation in whichits barrier layer 46 is oriented inwardly (e.g., facing venting tubingannulus 25B) and its adhesive layer 44 is oriented outwardly (e.g.,facing intermediate barrier layer 38).

Furthermore, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Moreover, as describedabove, in some embodiments, the intermediate barrier layer 38 of a pipesegment 20 may be implemented at least in part by extruding theintermediate barrier layer 38. In fact, in some such embodiments,implementing the intermediate barrier layer 38 at least in part byextruding the intermediate barrier layer 38 may also heat activate theadhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42, which, at least in someinstances, may facilitate reducing implementation associated cost of thepipe segment 20, for example, at least in part by obviating a separateheating process to activate the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42(process block 68).

As described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 may additionallyinclude a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, which is implemented aroundan intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20. As such,implementing the pipe segment 20 may include implementing areinforcement tubing annulus 25A around the intermediate barrier layer38 of the pipe segment 20 (process block 56). In particular, asdescribed above, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A may include one ormore reinforcement layers 36 that are each implemented using a solidmaterial that has a higher tensile strength and/or a higher linearelasticity modulus as compared to the solid material used to implementthe inner barrier layer 26, the intermediate barrier layer 38, and/or anouter barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment 20. For example, a barrierlayer (e.g., inner barrier layer 26, intermediate barrier layer 38, orouter barrier layer 28) of the pipe segment 20 may be implemented usingplastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), while a reinforcementlayer 36 of the pipe segment is implemented using metal, such as steel.

Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, a reinforcementlayer 36 included in a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of a pipesegment 20 may be implemented to enable the reinforcement layer 36 to bewrapped on an intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20 suchthat the reinforcement layer 36 facilitates defining a reinforcementfluid conduit 24A. In other words, in such embodiments, implementing thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A may include wrapping a reinforcementlayer 36 around the intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20to facilitate defining a reinforcement fluid conduit 24A (process block70). For example, the reinforcement layer 36 may be helically wrapped onthe intermediate barrier layer 38 to facilitate defining ahelically-shaped reinforcement fluid conduit 24A.

Furthermore, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an outer barrier layer 28, which is implemented around itsreinforcement tubing annulus 25A. As such, implementing the pipe segment20 may include implementing an outer barrier layer 28 around thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment 20 (process block58). In particular, as described above, in some embodiments, the outerbarrier layer 28 of pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented usingcomposite material and/or plastic, such as high-density polyethylene(HDPE) and/or raised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT).

However, as described above, in some embodiments, the tubing 22 of apipe segment 20 may include barrier tape 42 implemented between itsreinforcement tubing annulus 25A and its outer barrier layer 28. Inother words, in such embodiments, implementing the pipe segment 20 mayinclude implementing barrier tape 42 around its reinforcement tubingannulus 25A, for example, before the outer barrier layer 28 isimplemented (process block 62). That is, in such embodiments,implementing the barrier tape 42 may include implementing the barriertape 42 around a reinforcement layer 36 included in the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A.

In any case, as described above, barrier tape 42 implemented in pipesegment tubing 22 may generally include an adhesive layer 44 and abarrier layer 46. In particular, as described above, in someembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a first orientation in which its adhesive layer 44 is orientedinwardly (e.g., facing reinforcement tubing annulus 25A) and its barrierlayer 46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing outer barrier layer 28).However, as described above, to facilitate reducing the likelihood offaults, such as a hole, developing in the barrier tape 42, in otherembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a second (e.g., different and/or opposite) orientation in whichits barrier layer 46 is oriented inwardly (e.g., facing reinforcementtubing annulus 25A) and its adhesive layer 44 is oriented outwardly(e.g., facing outer barrier layer 28).

Furthermore, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Moreover, in someembodiments, the outer barrier layer 28 of a pipe segment 20 may beimplemented at least in part by extruding the outer barrier layer 28. Infact, in some such embodiments, implementing the outer barrier layer 28at least in part by extruding the outer barrier layer 28 may also heatactivate the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42, which, at leastin some instances, may facilitate reducing implementation associatedcost of the pipe segment 20, for example, at least in part by obviatinga separate heating process to activate the adhesive layer 44 of thebarrier tape 42. In this manner, the present disclosure providestechniques for implementing a pipe segment with multiple tubing annuli,which, at least in some instances, may facilitate improving tensilestrength and/or hoop strength of the pipe segment, for example, at leastin part by enabling the pipe segment to vent fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid) that permeates through an inner barrier layer of thepipe segment before it reaches the solid material used to implement areinforcement layer in the pipe segment.

However, as described above, in some instances, fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid and/or potentially contaminating fluid) may additionallyor alternatively permeate through an outer barrier layer 28 of thetubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 and, thus, potentially contact one ormore reinforcement layers 36 of the pipe segment tubing 22. In fact, insome such instances, the fluid may continue permeating through otherlayers of the pipe segment tubing 22 such that the fluid permeatesthrough the inner barrier layer 26 into a pipe bore 32 of the pipesegment 20 and, thus, potentially contaminates bore fluid (e.g., cleanand/or potable water) present in the pipe bore 32. As such, in someembodiments, the tubing 22 of the pipe segment 20 may be implemented tofacilitate venting fluid that permeates through its outer barrier layer28 before the fluid reaches a reinforcement layer 36 of the pipe segmenttubing 22 and/or before the fluid permeates through the inner barrierlayer 26 of the pipe segment tubing 22, for example, to facilitateimproving the tensile strength of the pipe segment 20, hoop strength ofthe pipe segment 20, fluid isolation provided by the pipe segment 20, orany combination thereof. In particular, to facilitate venting fluid thatpermeates through the outer barrier layer 28 of pipe segment tubing 22,as described above, in some embodiments, a venting tubing annulus 25 maybe implemented external to a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of thepipe segment tubing 22.

To help illustrate, another example of pipe segment tubing 22E, whichincludes a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and a venting tubing annulus25B, is shown in FIG. 9. As depicted, the pipe segment tubing 22Eadditionally includes an inner barrier layer 26 that defines a pipe bore32, an outer barrier layer 28, and an intermediate barrier layer 38. Insome embodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 9 may generallymatch the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 5, the outer barrier layer 28of FIG. 9 may generally match the outer barrier layer 28 of FIG. 5, theintermediate barrier layer 38 of FIG. 9 may generally match theintermediate barrier layer 38 of FIG. 5, or any combination thereof.

Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 9, the reinforcement tubing annulus25A of the pipe segment tubing 22E includes a reinforcement layer 36 andthe venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment tubing 22E includes aventing layer 40. In particular, similar to FIG. 5, as depicted in FIG.9, the reinforcement layer 36 of the pipe segment tubing 22E isimplemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit 24A. Furthermore,similar to FIG. 5, as depicted in FIG. 9, the venting layer 40 of thepipe segment tubing 22E is implemented to define a venting fluid conduit24B, for example, which may be fluidly coupled to a vent portimplemented on a pipe fitting 18.

However, as depicted in FIG. 9, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A ofthe pipe segment tubing 22E is implemented internal to the intermediatebarrier layer 38 and the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipe segmenttubing 22E is implemented external to the intermediate barrier layer 38.In other words, as depicted, the venting tubing annulus 25B and theintermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment tubing 22E areimplemented between the outer barrier layer 28 and the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment tubing 22E. As described above,in some embodiments, an intermediate barrier layer 38 of pipe segmenttubing 22 and a venting layer 40 included in a venting tubing annulus25B of the pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented using solidmaterial that is more resistant to fluid permeation as compared to asolid material used to implement an outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22. Thus, in such embodiments, implementing pipe segmenttubing 22 in this manner may facilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid and/or potentially contaminating fluid) that permeatesthrough an outer barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment tubing 22 beforeit reaches a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment tubing22 and/or a pipe bore 32 defined by the pipe segment tubing 22, forexample, at least in part by using a venting tubing annulus 25Bimplemented between the outer barrier layer 28 and the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A to route the fluid to a vent port on a pipe fitting18 that is fluidly coupled to the venting tubing annulus 25A.

However, it should be appreciated that the depicted example is merelyintended to be illustrative and not limiting. In particular, in otherembodiments, pipe segment tubing 22 may additionally include barriertape 42, for example, implemented between a reinforcement layer 36 andan intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment tubing 22 and/orbetween a venting layer 40 and an outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22. Moreover, as will be described in more detail below,in other embodiments, pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented multipleventing tubing annuli 25B, for example, which include a first ventingtubing annuli 25B that is implemented internal to a reinforcement tubingannulus 25A and a second venting tubing annuli 25B that is implementedexternal to the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. In any case, in thismanner, the present disclosure provides techniques for implementing apipe segment 20 with multiple tubing annuli 25, which, at least in someinstances, may facilitate improving tensile strength and/or hoopstrength of the pipe segment 20, for example, at least in part byenabling the pipe segment 20 to vent fluid (e.g., potentially corrosivefluid and/or potentially contaminating fluid) that permeates through anouter barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment 20 before it reaches thesolid material used to implement a reinforcement layer 36 in the pipesegment 20 and/or before it reaches a pipe bore 32 of the pipe segment20.

To help further illustrate, another example of a process 72 forimplementing a pipe segment 20 with multiple tubing annuli 25 isdescribed in FIG. 10. Generally, the process 72 includes implementing atubing inner barrier layer to define a pipe bore (process block 74) andimplementing a reinforcement tubing annulus around the tubing innerbarrier layer (process block 76). Additionally, the process 72 includesimplementing a tubing intermediate barrier layer around thereinforcement tubing annulus (process block 78), implementing a ventingtubing annulus around the tubing intermediate barrier layer (processblock 80), and implementing a tubing outer barrier layer around theventing tubing annulus (process block 82).

Although described in a specific order, which corresponds with anembodiment of the present disclosure, it should be appreciated that theexample process 72 is merely intended to be illustrative and notlimiting. In particular, in other embodiments, a process 72 forimplementing a pipe segment 20 with multiple tubing annuli 25 mayinclude one or more additional process blocks and/or omit one or more ofthe depicted process blocks. For example, some embodiments of theprocess 72 may additionally include implementing barrier tape around thereinforcement tubing annulus (process block 84) while other embodimentsof the process 72 do not. Additionally or alternatively, someembodiments of the process 72 may additionally include implementingbarrier tape around the venting tubing annulus (process block 86) whileother embodiments of the process 48 do not.

In any case, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an inner barrier layer 26, which is implemented to define a pipebore 32 through the pipe segment 20. As such, implementing the pipesegment 20 may include implementing an inner barrier layer 26 to definea pipe bore 32 through the pipe segment 20 (process block 74). Inparticular, as described above, in some embodiments, the inner barrierlayer 26 of pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented using compositematerial and/or plastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and/orraised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT). Additionally, in someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 may be implemented at least inpart by extruding the inner barrier layer 26.

As described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 may additionallyinclude a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, which is implemented aroundan inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20. As such, implementingthe pipe segment 20 may include implementing a reinforcement tubingannulus 25A around the inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20(process block 76). In particular, as described above, the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A may include one or more reinforcement layers 36 thatare each implemented using a solid material that has a higher tensilestrength and/or a higher linear elasticity modulus (e.g., stiffness) ascompared to the solid material used to implement the inner barrier layer26, an intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20, and/or anouter barrier layer 28 of the pipe segment 20. For example, a barrierlayer (e.g., inner barrier layer 26, intermediate barrier layer 38, orouter barrier layer 28) of the pipe segment 20 may be implemented usingplastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), while a reinforcementlayer 36 of the pipe segment is implemented using metal, such as steel.

Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, a reinforcementlayer 36 included in a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of a pipesegment 20 may be implemented to enable the reinforcement layer 36 to bewrapped on an inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20 such thatthe reinforcement layer 36 facilitates defining a reinforcement fluidconduit 24A. In other words, in such embodiments, implementing thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A may include wrapping a reinforcementlayer 36 around the inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment 20 tofacilitate defining a reinforcement fluid conduit 24A (process block88). For example, the reinforcement layer 36 may be helically wrapped onthe inner barrier layer 26 to facilitate defining a helically-shapedreinforcement fluid conduit 24A.

Furthermore, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an intermediate barrier layer 38, which is implemented aroundits reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. As such, implementing the pipesegment 20 may include implementing an intermediate barrier layer 38around its reinforcement tubing annulus 25A (process block 78). Inparticular, as described above, in some embodiments, the intermediatebarrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20 may be implemented using a solidmaterial that is more resistant to fluid permeation than the solidmaterial used to implement the inner barrier layer 40 of the pipesegment 20.

However, as described above, in some embodiments, the tubing 22 of apipe segment 20 may include barrier tape 42 implemented between itsreinforcement tubing annulus 25A and its intermediate barrier layer 38.In other words, in such embodiments, implementing the pipe segment 20may include implementing barrier tape 42 around its reinforcement tubingannulus 25A, for example, before the intermediate barrier layer 38 isimplemented (process block 84). That is, in such embodiments,implementing the barrier tape 42 may include implementing the barriertape 42 around a reinforcement layer 36 included in the reinforcementtubing annulus 25A.

In any case, as described above, barrier tape 42 implemented in pipesegment tubing 22 may generally include an adhesive layer 44 and abarrier layer 46. In particular, as described above, in someembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a first orientation in which its adhesive layer 44 is orientedinwardly (e.g., facing reinforcement tubing annulus 25A) and its barrierlayer 46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing intermediate barrier layer38). However, as described above, in other embodiments, the barrier tape42 may be implemented in the pipe segment 20 using a second (e.g.,different and/or opposite) orientation in which its barrier layer 46 isoriented inwardly (e.g., facing reinforcement tubing annulus 25A) andits adhesive layer 44 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing intermediatebarrier layer 38).

Furthermore, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Moreover, as describedabove, in some embodiments, the intermediate barrier layer 38 of a pipesegment 20 may be implemented at least in part by extruding theintermediate barrier layer 38. In fact, in some such embodiments,implementing the intermediate barrier layer 38 at least in part byextruding the intermediate barrier layer 38 may also heat activate theadhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42, which, at least in someinstances, may facilitate reducing implementation associated cost of thepipe segment 20, for example, at least in part by obviating a separateheating process to activate the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42(process block 90).

Moreover, to facilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluidand/or potentially contaminating fluid) that permeates through its outerbarrier layer 28 before the fluid reaches its reinforcement tubingannulus 25B and/or its pipe bore 32, as described above, the tubing 22of a pipe segment 20 may include a venting tubing annulus 25Bimplemented between its reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and its outerbarrier layer 28. In other words, the venting tubing annulus 25B may beimplemented around the intermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment20, which is implemented around the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A. Assuch, implementing the pipe segment 20 may include implementing aventing tubing annulus 25B around the intermediate barrier layer 38 ofthe pipe segment 20 (process block 80).

Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, a venting layer40 included in a venting tubing annulus 25B of a pipe segment 20 may beimplemented to enable the venting layer 40 to be wrapped on anintermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20 such that theventing layer 40 facilitates defining a venting fluid conduit 24B. Inother words, in such embodiments, implementing the venting tubingannulus 25B may include wrapping a venting layer 40 around theintermediate barrier layer 38 of the pipe segment 20 to facilitatedefining a venting fluid conduit 24B (process block 92). For example,the venting layer 40 may be helically wrapped on the intermediatebarrier layer 38 to facilitate defining a helically-shaped venting fluidconduit 24B. As described above, the venting fluid conduit 24B mayfacilitate venting fluid (e.g., potentially corrosive fluid and/orpotentially contaminating fluid) that permeates through the outerbarrier layer 28 out from the pipe segment 20 before the fluid permeatesinto a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of the pipe segment 20, which isimplemented internal to the venting tubing annulus 25B and/or into apipe bore 32 of the pipe segment 20, for example, at least in part byrouting the fluid to a vent port on a pipe fitting 18 that is fluidlycoupled to the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment 20.

To facilitate further reducing the likelihood of potentially corrosivefluid permeating into its reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, in someembodiments, a pipe segment 20 may additionally include scavengermaterial disposed within a venting fluid conduit 24B defined in itsventing tubing annulus 25B. In other words, in such embodiments,implementing the venting tubing annulus 25B may include disposingscavenger material within one or more venting fluid conduits 24B definedin the venting tubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment 20 (process block94). For example, to facilitate reducing the likelihood of hydrogensulfide (H₂S) permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, thepipe segment 20 may include a scavenger material that consumes hydrogensulfide in one or more of its venting fluid conduits 24B. Additionallyor alternatively, to facilitate reducing the likelihood of carbondioxide (CO₂) permeating into the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A, thepipe segment 20 may include a scavenger material that consumes carbondioxide in one or more of its venting fluid conduits 24B.

Furthermore, as described above, the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20 mayinclude an outer barrier layer 28, which is implemented around itsventing tubing annulus 25B. As such, implementing the pipe segment 20may include implementing an outer barrier layer 28 around the ventingtubing annulus 25B of the pipe segment 20 (process block 82). Inparticular, as described above, in some embodiments, the outer barrierlayer 28 of pipe segment tubing 22 may be implemented using compositematerial and/or plastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and/orraised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT).

However, as described above, in some embodiments, the tubing 22 of apipe segment 20 may include barrier tape 42 implemented between itsventing tubing annulus 25B and its outer barrier layer 28. In otherwords, in such embodiments, implementing the pipe segment 20 may includeimplementing barrier tape 42 around its venting tubing annulus 25B, forexample, before the outer barrier layer 28 is implemented (process block86). That is, in such embodiments, implementing the barrier tape 42 mayinclude implementing the barrier tape 42 around a venting layer 40included in the venting tubing annulus 25B.

In any case, as described above, barrier tape 42 implemented in pipesegment tubing 22 may generally include an adhesive layer 44 and abarrier layer 46. In particular, as described above, in someembodiments, the barrier tape 42 may be implemented in the pipe segment20 using a first orientation in which its adhesive layer 44 is orientedinwardly (e.g., facing venting tubing annulus 25B) and its barrier layer46 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing outer barrier layer 28). However,as described above, in other embodiments, the barrier tape 42 may beimplemented in the pipe segment 20 using a second (e.g., differentand/or opposite) orientation in which its barrier layer 46 is orientedinwardly (e.g., facing venting tubing annulus 25B) and its adhesivelayer 44 is oriented outwardly (e.g., facing outer barrier layer 28).

Furthermore, as described above, in some embodiments, the adhesive layer44 of barrier tape 42 may be heat activated. Moreover, in someembodiments, the outer barrier layer 28 of a pipe segment 20 may beimplemented at least in part by extruding the outer barrier layer 28. Infact, in some such embodiments, implementing the outer barrier layer 28at least in part by extruding the outer barrier layer 28 may also heatactivate the adhesive layer 44 of the barrier tape 42, which, at leastin some instances, may facilitate reducing implementation associatedcost of the pipe segment 20, for example, at least in part by obviatinga separate heating process to activate the adhesive layer 44 of thebarrier tape 42. In this manner, the present disclosure providestechniques for implementing a pipe segment with multiple tubing annuli,which, at least in some instances, may facilitate improving tensilestrength and/or hoop strength of the pipe segment, for example, at leastin part by enabling the pipe segment to vent fluid (e.g., potentiallycorrosive fluid and/or potentially contaminating fluid) that permeatesthrough an outer barrier layer of the pipe segment before it reaches thesolid material used to implement a reinforcement layer in the pipesegment.

However, as described above, in some instances, fluid may permeatethrough an inner barrier layer 26 of the tubing 22 of a pipe segment 20as well as an outer barrier layer of the pipe segment tubing 22. Thus,in some embodiments, the tubing of the pipe segment may be implementedwith multiple venting tubing annuli 25B. For example, the tubing 22 ofthe pipe segment 20 may include a venting tubing annulus 25B implementedbetween its inner barrier layer 26 and its reinforcement tubing annulus25A as well as another venting tubing annulus 25B implemented betweenits reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and its outer barrier layer 28.

To help illustrate, another example of pipe segment tubing 22F, whichincludes a reinforcement tubing annulus 25A and multiple venting tubingannuli 25B—namely an inner venting tubing annulus 96 and an outerventing tubing annulus 98, is shown in FIG. 11. As depicted, the pipesegment tubing 22F additionally includes an inner barrier layer 26 thatdefines a pipe bore 32, an outer barrier layer 28, and multipleintermediate barrier layers 38—namely an inner intermediate barrierlayer 38A and an outer intermediate barrier layer 38B. In someembodiments, the inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 11 may generally matchthe inner barrier layer 26 of FIG. 5. In fact, in some such embodiments,the inner barrier layer 26 of the pipe segment tubing 22F may beimplemented in accordance with process block 50 of FIG. 8.

Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 11, the inner venting tubing annulus96 of the pipe segment tubing 22F is implemented around the innerbarrier layer 26. In particular, as depicted, the inner venting tubingannulus 96 includes an inner venting layer 40A that is implemented todefine a venting fluid conduit 24B, for example, which may be fluidlycoupled to a vent port on a pipe fitting 18. As such, in someembodiments, the inner venting tubing annulus 96 of FIG. 11 maygenerally match the venting tubing annulus 25B of FIG. 5. In fact, insome such embodiments, the inner venting tubing annulus 96 of the pipesegment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with process block52 of FIG. 8.

Furthermore, as depicted in FIG. 11, the inner intermediate barrierlayer 38A of the pipe segment tubing 22F is implemented around the innerventing tubing annulus 96. As such, in some embodiments, the innerintermediate barrier layer 38A of FIG. 11 may generally match theintermediate barrier layer 38 of FIG. 5. In fact, in some suchembodiments, the inner intermediate barrier layer 38A of the pipesegment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with process block54 of FIG. 8.

Moreover, as depicted in FIG. 11, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25Aof the pipe segment tubing 22B is implemented around the innerintermediate barrier layer 38A. In particular, as depicted, thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A includes a reinforcement layer 36 thatis implemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit 24A. As such, insome embodiments, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG. 11 maygenerally match the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of FIG. 5. In fact,in some such embodiments, the reinforcement tubing annulus 25A of thepipe segment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with processblock 56 of FIG. 8.

Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 11, the outer intermediate barrierlayer 38B of the pipe segment tubing 22F is implemented around thereinforcement tubing annulus 25A. As such, in some embodiments, theouter intermediate barrier layer 38B of FIG. 11 may generally match theintermediate barrier layer 38 of FIG. 9. In fact, in some suchembodiments, the outer intermediate barrier layer 38B of the pipesegment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with process block78 of FIG. 10.

Furthermore, as depicted in FIG. 11, the outer venting tubing annulus 98of the pipe segment tubing 22F is implemented around the outerintermediate barrier layer 38B. In particular, as depicted, the outerventing tubing annulus 98 includes an outer venting layer 40B that isimplemented to define a venting fluid conduit 24B, for example, whichmay be fluidly coupled to a vent port on a pipe fitting 18. As such, insome embodiments, the outer venting tubing annulus 98 of FIG. 11 maygenerally match the venting tubing annulus 25B of FIG. 9. In fact, insome such embodiments, the outer venting tubing annulus 98 of the pipesegment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with process block80 of FIG. 10.

Moreover, as depicted in FIG. 11, the outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22F is implemented around the outer venting tubingannulus 98. As such, in some embodiments, the outer barrier layer 28 ofFIG. 11 may generally match the outer barrier layer 28 of FIG. 9. Infact, in some such embodiments, the outer barrier layer 28 of the pipesegment tubing 22F may be implemented in accordance with process block82 of FIG. 10. In this manner, the present disclosure providestechniques for implementing a pipe segment with multiple tubing annuli,which, at least in some instances, may facilitate improving tensilestrength of the pipe segment, hoop strength of the pipe segment, and/orfluid isolation provided by the pipe segment, for example, at least inpart by enabling the pipe segment to vent fluid that permeates throughan outer barrier layer or an inner barrier layer of the pipe segmentbefore it reaches the solid material used to implement a reinforcementlayer in the pipe segment.

While the present disclosure has been described with respect to alimited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefitof this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments may bedevised which do not depart from the scope of the disclosure asdescribed herein. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure should belimited only by the attached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A pipe segment comprising: a tubing inner barrierlayer that defines a pipe bore through the pipe segment; a reinforcementtubing annulus implemented around the tubing inner barrier layer,wherein the reinforcement tubing annulus comprises a first solidmaterial implemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit; a tubingintermediate barrier layer implemented around the reinforcement tubingannulus; a venting tubing annulus implemented around the tubingintermediate barrier layer, wherein the venting tubing annulus comprisesa second solid material that is different from the first solid materialin the reinforcement tubing annulus and implemented to define a ventingfluid conduit; and a tubing outer barrier layer implemented around theventing tubing annulus, wherein the venting fluid conduit defined in theventing tubing annulus is configured to facilitate venting fluid thatpermeates from external environmental conditions through the tubingouter barrier layer out from the pipe segment before the fluid contactsthe first solid material in the reinforcement tubing annulus.
 2. Thepipe segment of claim 1, comprising scavenger material disposed withinthe venting fluid conduit defined in the venting tubing annulus tofacilitate consuming at least a portion of the fluid that permeatesthrough the tubing outer barrier layer into the venting tubing annulus.3. The pipe segment of claim 1, comprising barrier tape implementedbetween the reinforcement tubing annulus and the tubing intermediatebarrier layer, wherein the barrier tape comprises: an adhesive layeroriented outwardly toward the tubing intermediate barrier layer; and abarrier layer oriented inwardly toward the reinforcement tubing annulus.4. The pipe segment of claim 1, comprising barrier tape implementedbetween the venting tubing annulus and the tubing outer barrier layer,wherein the barrier tape comprises: an adhesive layer oriented outwardlytoward the tubing outer barrier layer; and a barrier layer orientedinwardly toward the venting tubing annulus.
 5. The pipe segment of claim1, comprising barrier tape disposed directly adjacent to the ventingtubing annulus, wherein the barrier tape comprises: an adhesive layeroriented away from the venting tubing annulus; and a barrier layeroriented toward the venting tubing annulus.
 6. The pipe segment of claim1, wherein: the tubing inner barrier layer comprises high-densitypolyethylene; the first solid material in the reinforcement tubingannulus comprises steel; the second solid material in the venting tubingannulus comprises aluminum; and the tubing outer barrier layer compriseshigh-density polyethylene.
 7. The pipe segment of claim 4, wherein thetubing intermediate barrier layer comprises a solid material that hasslower fluid permeation than high-density polyethylene.
 8. The pipesegment of claim 1, comprising: another tubing intermediate barrierlayer implemented between the tubing inner barrier layer and thereinforcement tubing annulus; and another venting tubing annulusimplemented between the tubing inner barrier layer and the other tubingintermediate barrier layer to define another venting fluid conduit,wherein the other venting fluid conduit is configured to facilitateventing fluid that permeates from the pipe bore through the tubing innerbarrier layer out from the pipe segment before the fluid contacts thefirst solid material in the reinforcement tubing annulus.
 9. The pipesegment of claim 8, comprising barrier tape implemented between theother venting tubing annulus and the other tubing intermediate barrierlayer, wherein the barrier tape comprises: an adhesive layer orientedoutwardly toward the other tubing intermediate barrier layer; and abarrier layer oriented inwardly toward the other venting tubing annulus.10. A method of implementing tubing of a pipe segment, comprising:implementing an inner barrier layer of the tubing to define a pipe borethrough the pipe segment; implementing an outer barrier layer of thetubing circumferentially around the inner barrier layer of the tubing;implementing a reinforcement tubing annulus circumferentially around theinner barrier layer at least in part by helically disposing a steelstrip to define a helical reinforcement fluid conduit; implementing aventing tubing annulus circumferentially around the inner barrier layerat least in part by helically disposing a polymer strip or an aluminumstrip to define a helical venting fluid conduit that facilitates ventingfluid that permeates into the tubing of the pipe segment out from thetubing before the fluid contacts the steel strip in the reinforcementtubing annulus; and implementing an intermediate barrier layer such thatthe intermediate barrier layer is disposed between the reinforcementtubing annulus and the venting tubing annulus.
 11. The method of claim10, comprising disposing scavenger material in the helical venting fluidconduit to facilitate consuming at least a portion of the fluid thatpermeates into the tubing of the pipe segment.
 12. The method of claim10, wherein: implementing the inner barrier layer comprises implementingthe inner barrier layer using high-density polyethylene; implementingthe outer barrier layer comprises implementing the outer barrier layerusing high-density polyethylene; and implementing the intermediatebarrier layer comprises implementing the intermediate barrier layerusing a solid material that has slower fluid permeation thanhigh-density polyethylene.
 13. The method of claim 10, comprisingimplementing barrier tape, wherein: implementing the intermediatebarrier layer comprises implementing the intermediate barrier layercircumferentially around the venting tubing annulus; and implementingthe barrier tape comprises: orienting an adhesive layer of the barriertape outwardly away from the venting tubing annulus; and orienting abarrier layer of the barrier tape inwardly toward the venting tubingannulus.
 14. The method of claim 10, comprising implementing barriertape directly adjacent to the venting tubing annulus at least in partby: orienting an adhesive layer of the barrier tape away from theventing tubing annulus; and orienting a barrier layer of the barriertape toward the venting tubing annulus.
 15. Pipe segment tubingcomprising: an inner barrier layer configured to define a pipe bore,wherein the inner barrier layer is implemented using high-densitypolyethylene; an outer barrier layer implemented around the innerbarrier layer of the pipe segment tubing, wherein the outer barrierlayer is implemented using high-density polyethylene; a reinforcementlayer implemented between the inner barrier layer and the outer barrierlayer, wherein the reinforcement layer comprises a steel strip that ishelically disposed to facilitate defining a helical reinforcement fluidconduit; a venting layer implemented between the inner barrier layer andthe outer barrier layer, wherein the venting layer comprises a polymerstrip or an aluminum strip that is helically disposed to facilitatedefining a helical venting fluid conduit that is configured tofacilitate venting fluid that permeates into the pipe segment tubing outfrom the pipe segment tubing before the fluid contacts the steel stripin the reinforcement layer of the pipe segment tubing; and anintermediate barrier layer implemented between the reinforcement layerand the venting layer.
 16. The pipe segment tubing of claim 15, whereinthe intermediate barrier layer is implemented using a solid materialother than high-density polyethylene.
 17. The pipe segment tubing ofclaim 15, wherein the intermediate barrier layer is implemented using asolid material that has slower fluid permeation than high-densitypolyethylene.
 18. The pipe segment tubing of claim 15, comprisingscavenger material disposed within the helical venting fluid conduit tofacilitate consuming at least a portion of the fluid that permeates intothe pipe segment tubing.
 19. The pipe segment tubing of claim 15,comprising barrier tape disposed between the venting layer and theintermediate barrier layer, wherein: the venting layer is internal tothe intermediate barrier layer while the reinforcement layer is externalto the intermediate barrier layer; and the barrier tape comprises anadhesive layer oriented outwardly toward the intermediate barrier layerand a barrier layer oriented inwardly toward the venting layer.
 20. Thepipe segment tubing of claim 15, comprising barrier tape disposeddirectly adjacent to the venting layer, wherein the barrier tapecomprises an adhesive layer oriented away from the venting layer and abarrier layer oriented toward the venting layer.